He added: "We take care it's an educational experience. I'm not just taking them out for joyrides. There has to be a direct link between what they are doing in school and what they are doing in the air."

At the airfield, the pupils check the aircraft, go through navigation exercises, plot a route and learn how to use the plane's on-board computers.

The school, which was awarded Business and Enterprise status this year, helped fund the flying trips.

Pupils themselves had to pay £40 for the experience.

Through the business and enterprise scheme, Mr Chowdhury also hopes the school may one day buy a share in a plane and is seeking sponsorship to help with the course.

He also wants to set up pilot training evening courses for the public.